University of Dubuque Receives $700,000 Congressional Earmark for Science Center

Dec 16, 2005 | University of Dubuque Theological Seminary

The University of Dubuque has received $700,000 in funding through U.S. Department of Energy funding legislation recently signed by President George W. Bush. The congressional earmark will be used to enhance the University's Science Center, which is currently undergoing expansion and renovation. 

"I want to express my special thanks to Senators Grassley and Harkin and Congressmen Nussle and Latham and the entire Iowa Congressional delegation for their tremendous support in securing funds for this important renovation and expansion project," stated President Bullock. "With an additional 21,000 square feet of space in the East Wing, we will be able to devote the proper resources to our growing science programs." 

One of the University Science Center's essential missions is to make available equipment and laboratories that support faculty in providing quality education for a new generation of science professionals. The Department of Natural and Applied Sciences offers programs that concentrate on biology and environmental science, which includes environmental chemistry, geology, and biology. Department programs are geared toward current K-12 science teachers, agency personnel, and undergraduate students interested in a full suite of pre-professional offerings that prepares them for graduate study in the health sciences. The University's recently reinstated nursing program will have classroom, clinical laboratory, and faculty office space in the renovated Goldthorp Wing. 

An inviting facility, the expanded and renovated Science Center will be designed to welcome visitors to the campus at the University Avenue entrance as well as embrace the science community within the University. The existing 32,000 square foot Goldthorp Wing will be echoed in a 21,000 square foot East Wing anchoring the east edge of the campus. The design of the new construction will accommodate efficient laboratories, with an eye toward long-term flexibility. Planned laboratory spaces include geology, zoology, general biology, cell/microbiology, science education, nursing, general chemistry, organic chemistry, geographic information systems (GIS), and five research labs to accommodate student-faculty collaborative research projects. The East Wing will be joined to the renovated Goldthorp Wing by a multi-level atrium which will form a gathering and study area stretching from the University Avenuenorthern exposure to the A. Y. McDonald Plaza's southern exposure. This spacious, light filled space will serve to strengthen the connection between the interior of the building and its surrounding inside-outside communities in ways that are inviting and welcoming. 

"This funding is a terrific investment in the future of Dubuque students. Advancing our students' skills in science is a fundamental component in making sure our children are learning, and have the tools they need to reach their fullest potential," stated Congressman Nussle. 

This latest $700,000 gift brings the University's total funding from the Department of Energy to more than $1 million dollars.